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5 Richest Politicians in Washington

In today’s political landscape, it’s hard to ignore the significant wealth many politicians hold. While the idea of wealthy lawmakers might raise eyebrows, it also brings a unique perspective. These individuals often come from successful careers in business, bringing their financial savvy and experience to government. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the five richest politicians in Washington, showcasing their backgrounds and how their wealth influences their approach to public service.

From entrepreneurs who built their fortunes from the ground up to seasoned senators, these politicians have not only amassed significant wealth but also hold important positions that affect our daily lives. While trust in politicians may be low, understanding their financial backgrounds can help us see the motivations behind their policies.

Whether you admire their entrepreneurial spirit or question their motives, their stories are worth knowing. Join us as we delve into the lives of these influential figures, examining how their wealth shapes their political agendas and ultimately impacts the citizens they serve.

Paul Mitchell

Paul Mitchell

Paul Mitchell is a former Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Michigan, with an estimated net worth of $179.6 million. Prior to his election to Congress, Mitchell was a successful businessman in the construction industry, having founded and operated a number of successful companies. 

His business acumen has shaped his approach to governance, focusing on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure, and job creation. Though he served only one term in Congress before opting not to seek re-election, Mitchell’s impact was felt through his advocacy for policies aimed at supporting small businesses and improving the overall economy.

Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc/Getty Images

Greg Gianforte

Greg Gianforte

Greg Gianforte, a Republican congressman from Montana, has a net worth of around $189.3 million. Before entering politics, Gianforte founded and ran several successful technology companies, including RightNow Technologies, which specializes in customer service software. 

His wealth largely comes from his entrepreneurial endeavors in the tech industry. Gianforte's business background heavily influences his political priorities, particularly in supporting innovation and economic development in rural areas. 

???, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mark Warner

Mark Warner

Senator Mark Warner represents Virginia in the U.S. Senate and has a net worth of approximately $214.1 million. Before his political career, Warner co-founded Nextel Communications, a telecommunications company that revolutionized mobile communication.

 His successful business ventures have provided him with substantial wealth and insights into technology and innovation, which he actively advocates for in the Senate. Warner is known for his bipartisan approach, focusing on issues such as cybersecurity, economic development, and education.

Mark Warner/Mark Warner/CC BY SA 2.0/Flickr

Rick Scott

Rick Scott

Rick Scott, a prominent Republican senator from Florida, has an estimated net worth of $259.7 million. Prior to his political career, Scott served as the governor of Florida from 2011 to 2019 and was the CEO of Columbia/HCA, a large healthcare company. 

His tenure at Columbia/HCA was marked by significant growth, but also controversies surrounding Medicare fraud, which led to a federal investigation. Despite this, Scott’s experience in the healthcare industry has greatly influenced his legislative priorities, particularly in health policy. His focus on veterans' issues and healthcare costs has resonated with constituents, making him a prominent figure in the Senate.

Govenor Rick Scott/Rick Scott Head Shot/CC BY SA 2.0/Flickr

Kevin Hern

Kevin Hern

Kevin Hern is currently serving as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Oklahoma's 1st congressional district. Hern, a Republican, has built a significant fortune, estimated at $361 million, primarily through his successful career as an entrepreneur.

 Before entering politics, Hern owned a number of McDonald’s franchises and has been involved in various business ventures, including real estate and healthcare. His wealth has positioned him among the wealthiest members of Congress, and his business acumen informs his political views, particularly on issues like economic growth and tax reform. 

Gage Skidmore/Kevin Hern/CC BY SA 2.0/Flickr